After suffering a disappointing eight-wicket defeat in the first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru, Team India has made a strategic change by adding Washington Sundar to their squad for the remaining two Tests. Sundar, a right-arm off-spinner and left-handed batsman, was not initially included in the squad or even the reserves.
Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has analyzed the rationale behind Sundar’s inclusion. He noted that Sundar’s recent century for Tamil Nadu against Delhi may have played a role. However, Chopra also raised concerns about the fitness of R Ashwin, who was brought in to bowl late in the final innings of the Bengaluru Test and bowled only two overs.
“The question that comes to mind is – what is the Indian team thinking?” Chopra said. “Do they want to play another spinner? There were already plenty of fast bowlers in the traveling reserves. Is Ashwin not fully fit?”
Chopra questioned the logic behind not bowling Ashwin more extensively in the fourth innings, suggesting that he may be carrying an injury. “Was it because of that he was given only two overs on the last day?” he asked. “He was bowled when the match was over. It just did not make sense that you don’t bowl Ashwin at all.”
Sundar’s inclusion could indicate that the Indian team is considering playing two spinners in the remaining Tests. However, it remains to be seen whether Ashwin’s fitness will allow him to play a full role.
